The rail link to Torquay was crucial in its development. Before 1848, coming to the area meant a very long and uncomfortable journey by stagecoach. Visiting by train was much easier. Visitors remained wealthy however. Ordinary people had too little money and no paid holidays. For many the latter did not arrive until the 20th century. Pupils might be asked to write an eye-witness account of the first train arriving at the station in Torre. After a campaign to extend the line, the current Torquay station opened in 1859.